Livingston manager David Martindale’s incredible start to his spell as the club’s permanent manager continued at the weekend when the team came from a goal down to defeat Kilmarnock 2-1. Scott Robinson scored the winner in injury time, to make it six wins in a row for Martindale in all competitions.
That winner showed a never-say-die spirit that Martindale has installed in Livingston, that seemed to be missing at the start of the season under former manager Gary Holt.
Faces a tough test
Now Martindale faces arguably his sternest test yet as Livingston boss. His team takes on Aberdeen on Wednesday afternoon.
Livingston manager David Martindale celebrates his team’s win over Kilmarnock (Photo by Ross MacDonald/SNS Group via Getty Images)
The game will be hard for a few reasons. For a start, Aberdeen are in a good run of form themselves. They are unbeaten in their last five games. Also, Livingston have yet to defeat Aberdeen since they returned to the top flight in 2018. They have beat Celtic and Rangers, but not the Pittodrie club. Indeed, their last win over Aberdeen came in 2004.
However, Martindale should be confident that his team can bring that run to an end. He has installed confidence and belief in his team since he has taken over as manager. Perhaps a month ago a comfortable Aberdeen win would have been expected. That isn’t the case now.
Anything seems possible
Yes, Livingston will have to be at their best to ensure that they end the wait for a win over Aberdeen. However, Martindale has shown in his brief time in charge that anything seems possible for Livingston.
Livingston players celebrate at full time after beating Kilmarnock (Photo by Ross MacDonald/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Finishing in the top six of the Premiership and winning the Betfred Cup should be on the agenda for the club. Before that though, should be defeating Aberdeen for the first time in years.